App dossier · Anonymous messaging
NGL
Developer: NGL Labs, LLC
- US App Store rating18+
- Google Play ratingTeen
Anonymous question-and-answer links, often shared through social profiles. This is an adult-only service under its current terms, not an app for under-18s. An anonymous inbox can invite cruelty, and a paid identity hint is not proof of who sent a message.
Official store icon identified from the store listing artwork (opens in new tab). Icon is shown to identify the app; trademark belongs to NGL Labs, LLC.
Adult-only app. Not for under-18s.
US App Store rating: 18+. Google Play rating: Teen. These ratings are separate from the account minimum age.
Account minimum age: NGL’s current terms do not permit users under 18.
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The essentials
Age, contact, spending
Minimum age
NGL’s current terms do not permit users under 18.
Age check
NGL’s official update says it requires a birthdate before account creation. Entering an adult birthday does not make a minor eligible.
Who can contact teens
People who receive the public question link may submit messages. Anonymity makes identity and intent difficult for the recipient to assess.
Disappearing content
Do not assume anonymous messages or screenshots disappear. Posting an answer can turn a private inbox item into public content.
Public content
The shared link can circulate beyond the intended audience. Answers reposted to a social profile follow that profile’s visibility rules.
Spending
NGL Pro is a recurring subscription. Understand exactly what a hint reveals and how to cancel; it should not be described as guaranteed sender identification.
Store stats
By the numbers
US App Store
4.76 stars from 387,980 ratings, as of October 8, 2026. Apple listing (opens in new tab)
Google Play downloads
100M+ as of October 8, 2026. Google Play listing (opens in new tab)
Official controls
How to set them up
Enforce the adult-only boundary
For an under-18 teen, do not create an account or bypass the age requirement. Remove shared links and use device purchase/app restrictions. Eligible adults should review the official update for message controls and subscription management.
Official instructions → (opens in new tab)
Privacy
What gets shared
An anonymous label does not mean the service collects no data. Never put sensitive personal information in a question or reply.
Safety
What parents should know
- A July 2024 FTC release described a proposed order banning NGL from offering anonymous messaging to under-18s and alleged deceptive moderation and subscription practices. The current company terms independently exclude under-18s.
- The FTC release also discussed company-generated messages. NGL now says Team NGL messages are labeled and can be disabled; do not mistake them for a real admirer.
Safeguards described here are reported by the company in its own materials (see NGL: official safety, eligibility or parent guidance (opens in new tab)). They are not independent safety guarantees, and Lowkey has not tested them.
Decoder
Slang you will hear
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Get the free weekly briefing.
One email a week — what you need to know about your teens world.
Your teen won’t explain it. We will.
Your email goes to Substack under its privacy policy. You may need to finish signup there. Subscribe directly on Substack.
Want more? Go paid: $9/month or $75/year.